HSE launches helpline to give information on services

A new helpline has been launched to provide callers with details of national schemes from the country's health services.

The Health Service Executive hopes trained staff will eventually be able to give medical advice through the facility.

Aidan Browne of the HSE said this afternoon that it is important to make access to information easier.

"The line will initially be available from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday for the first three months, while we're testing the success and its different aspects.

"Primarily, user will be able to access information about the health service, principally the schemes - issues like medical cards, GP visit cards, European health insurance cards etc," he added.